The author interviews Jim Williams, owner of the Mercer House, one of the grandest homes in Savannah, Georgia. Jim is affable and open about his modest origins growing up in Gordon, Georgia, and his transformation into one of the richest residents of Savannah. He earned his fortune through both real estate and the antiques business: “Williams had played an active role in the restoration of Savannah’s historic district, starting in the mid-1950s” (5). After finishing restoring the Mercer House, he throws a glamorous Christmas party that soon becomes one of Savannah’s most sought-after annual events of the year.

As Williams takes Berendt on a tour of his home and the grounds, which together take up an entire city block, Williams tells Berendt various stories not only about himself but also of Savannah’s elite. In the middle of telling a story about how Jacqueline Onassis stopped by for an unannounced tour of his home, the two men are interrupted by a young man who comes into the house yelling, “Goddammit! Goddamn bitch!” (17). After the man drinks a full glass of vodka, he storms out, driving away with squealing tires. Williams explains that the man,

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now